How Do I Book a Chimpanzee Tracking Safari in Rwanda? 

How Do I Book a Chimpanzee Tracking Safari in Rwanda?  Rwanda, often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” offers one of the most remarkable opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts: chimpanzee tracking. Rwanda is home to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of the best locations in East Africa to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. If you are planning to embark on a chimpanzee tracking safari in Rwanda, it is essential to understand the process, regulations, and necessary steps to ensure a smooth and unforgettable experience. This detailed guide by Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd. will walk you through everything you need to know to book your chimpanzee tracking safari in Rwanda.

Why Choose Rwanda for Chimpanzee Tracking?

Before diving into the booking process, it’s essential to understand why Rwanda is an ideal destination for chimpanzee tracking. The country’s Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the most biodiverse rainforests in Africa, home to over 13 primate species, including the endangered chimpanzee. The park is located in the southwestern region of Rwanda, offering trekkers the chance to see chimpanzees in their natural environment, alongside other wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and butterflies. Rwanda’s commitment to conservation ensures that visitors can experience these remarkable creatures in a sustainable and responsible manner.

Step 1: Choose Your Preferred Time for Chimpanzee Tracking

The first step in booking your chimpanzee tracking safari in Rwanda is determining when you’d like to visit. Rwanda enjoys a temperate climate, with two distinct rainy seasons: from March to May and from October to November. The dry months (from June to September and December to February) are generally considered the best time for trekking, as the trails are drier, and wildlife sightings are more consistent. However, chimpanzee tracking can take place year-round, and the rainforest’s lush greenery in the rainy season also offers its own unique appeal.

When choosing the timing of your safari, also consider chimpanzee availability, as the number of permits issued per day is limited, especially during the peak seasons. Thus, booking your safari in advance will give you a better chance of securing a spot on the trek.

Step 2: Contact a Reputable Tour Operator

Booking a chimpanzee tracking safari in Rwanda is best done through a reputable tour operator like Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd. Tour operators help coordinate your entire trip, ensuring that you meet all the necessary requirements and enjoy a seamless safari experience. They will assist with itinerary planning, securing permits, transportation, accommodation, and providing expert guides.

A knowledgeable tour operator can also offer advice on other activities to complement your chimpanzee tracking experience, such as canopy walks, bird watching, or visiting nearby attractions like Lake Kivu or Volcanoes National Park for gorilla trekking.

Step 3: Secure Chimpanzee Tracking Permits

One of the most important aspects of booking a chimpanzee tracking safari in Rwanda is securing a chimpanzee tracking permit. Nyungwe Forest National Park allows a limited number of tourists to track chimpanzees each day to minimize the environmental impact and protect the welfare of the animals. Only 8 tourists per group are permitted on each chimpanzee tracking session.

To ensure you don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity, it is essential to book your chimpanzee tracking permits well in advance. You can secure permits through a tour operator, or directly through the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), which manages the sale of these permits. If you are booking through a tour operator, they will handle the permit reservation for you, ensuring all the details are taken care of.

Permits typically cost around USD 90 per person (as of 2023) for a half-day trek. This fee includes the entrance fee to the park, a guide, and a ranger. It’s important to note that permits are non-refundable, and any cancellations made within a short time before the trekking date will not be reimbursed, so careful planning is crucial.

Step 4: Plan Your Accommodation

Once your chimpanzee tracking permits are secured, the next step is to organize your accommodation. Rwanda offers a range of accommodation options near Nyungwe Forest National Park, from luxury lodges to more affordable guesthouses and campsites. Here are a few popular options:

• Luxury Lodges: There are high-end lodges such as Nyungwe House and Karisimbi Hotel, offering comfort, beautiful views, and exceptional service.
• Mid-Range Options: For those seeking more affordable accommodations, Gisakura Guesthouse and Nyungwe Top View Hotel provide comfortable and budget-friendly stays.
• Camping: For the more adventurous, Nyungwe Forest also offers designated camping sites where you can enjoy an immersive experience in nature.

Your tour operator will be able to recommend accommodation that suits your budget and preferences, as well as help you book in advance to ensure availability, particularly during peak seasons.

Step 5: Transportation to Nyungwe Forest National Park

Getting to Nyungwe Forest National Park is another essential aspect of planning your chimpanzee tracking safari. Nyungwe is located approximately 5-6 hours drive from Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. Your tour operator can organize transportation to and from the park, which may include a private vehicle, local flights, or even shared transport, depending on your preference.

If you’re planning to fly into Rwanda, Kigali International Airport is the primary point of entry, and your tour operator will arrange for you to be picked up and transferred to Nyungwe. Additionally, some operators offer flights to Kamembe Airport (near Nyungwe) for quicker access, although this service is less frequent and may come at a higher cost.

Step 6: Trekking and the Experience

On the day of your chimpanzee tracking adventure, you’ll be assigned to a trained ranger guide who will lead you into the forest. Depending on the location of the chimpanzees that day, the trek could range from an hour to several hours of hiking through lush, often steep terrain. It’s important to come prepared by wearing comfortable hiking boots, light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. Insect repellent is also recommended, as the forest is home to various insect species.

While trekking, your guide will ensure that the group remains at a safe distance from the chimpanzees. This is vital for both the safety of the animals and the trekkers. You’ll be able to observe the chimpanzees as they go about their daily activities, including feeding, grooming, and socializing. The experience of seeing chimpanzees in the wild, interacting in their natural environment, is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that makes all the effort worthwhile.

Step 7: Respect the Rules and Guidelines

To ensure a safe and ethical experience, all visitors are required to adhere to the following guidelines during chimpanzee tracking:

• Maintain a safe distance of at least 7 meters (23 feet) from the chimpanzees.
• Avoid loud noises and sudden movements that may startle the chimpanzees.
• Do not feed or touch the chimpanzees under any circumstances.
• Follow the instructions of your guide at all times to ensure your safety and the well-being of the chimpanzees.

Conclusion

Booking a chimpanzee tracking safari in Rwanda is a thrilling and rewarding experience, offering visitors a unique opportunity to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. By following these steps, you can ensure that your trip is well-planned and your safari is a memorable one. From securing permits and choosing the right time to visit to ensuring your safety and adhering to ethical guidelines, the process of booking a chimpanzee safari requires thoughtful planning and preparation. At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd., we specialize in offering tailor-made chimpanzee tracking experiences and will be happy to assist you every step of the way.